How to Propagate an Orchid From a Broken Branch

Although you see a limited number of orchids in the floral shop, the name refers to almost 800 genera and more than 17,000 species. With so much variation, it is not simple to generalize cultivation requirements when it comes to orchids. Among the types you usually find for sale as houseplants, the Dendrobium species is one you can propagate from a broken stem if at least one of its buds is dormant.

Sphagnum peat moss
2-inch planter
Shears
Spray bottle
Orchid potting mix
Planter

Instructions

- 1
  Moisten enough sphagnum peat moss to fill a 2-inch pot. Add the material to the planter.
- 2
  Cut the broken stem to a 3- to 4-inch-long cutting if it is longer. Retain at least one dormant bud. Keep track of which side of the stem is the top and which one is the bottom.
- 3
  Plant the bottom end of the Dendrobium branch in the sphagnum peat moss. Press the material against the base of the stem to hold it in place upright.
- 4
  Spray the stem and the moss with water at planting. Move the pot to the shade. Continue to maintain the rooting medium and the stem moist.
- 5
  Separate by hand or with shears the orchid that sprouts from the node after it develops several aerial roots. Plant it in orchid potting mix.

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